Water Wheel Falls

Water Wheel Falls is a 2 mile moderately trafficked out and back trail located near Payson, Arizona that features a waterfall and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, nature trips, and birding and is accessible from March until September. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.

2.0 miles214 feetOut & Back

dogs on leash

kid friendly

birding

hiking

nature trips

walking

views

waterfall

wild flowers

wildlife

over grown

rocky

washed out

Short hike with wonderful views and the option to continue up to the Ellison Creek Cascades. If you're in the area it's worth the trip. There is no official trail. It's more a trail of use that skirts away from Water Wheel Camp Grounds.
Short hike with the option to continue up to the Ellison Creek Cascades. If you're in the area it's worth the trip. There is no official trail. It's more a trail of use that skirts away from Water Wheel Camp Grounds. There are also a lot of swimming holes to cool down during the AZ summer.

We couldn't figure this trail out BUT we had fun.. never made it to the falls I think we took a wrong turn somewhere... the trail is not easily marked.. but so pretty and worth the hike... the weather was perfect!

Justin M.

an appealing water feature in Arizona located minutes from downtown Payson. The reviews and guide books rate it easy but make no mistake that this not an improved trail and 80 percent of the time you are off trail going over granite boulders. Anyone can do this trail but little kids and elderly should be extra cautious. The swimming hole is legit but so are the crowds.

Very great views!! We just got back and the water was cold but you get used to it after a while. It started sprinkling so we started to head out. Funny thing is, is that just 30 min before it was hot and sunny. ALOT of rock climbing so make sure you wear the right shoes. I though maybe because we were just going to go and get wet that i didn't have to take good shoes. Wrong mistake!! I kept slipping LoL there is alit of places to stop and look or hang out. Some people were even fishing

I've been here twice, first was the Second Crossing, a nice secluded area by the water off .. pass under the bridge, and go up the hill to the right over the rocks and there you are.. for more hiking go North from there - rather than South. Also went to the Waterwheel Falls main entrance - it was very over populated with people, lots of waiting, but the scenery was extremely beautiful, especially when the rain clouds came through and covered everything with shade for the hike back. I very much recommend this hike! (Wear hiking shoes, terrain is rock, water, sand and mud